In the context of Chicago’s NeoCon commercial design fair, Perimeter Architects and client Dispensary 33 held a conference on Chicago’s most successful cannabis dispensary. The state of Illinois opened up to a license structure for cannabis distribution in 2014, allowing about 20 cultivators and 60 dispensaries. Despite this new-found acceptance, the journey presented major challenges for the client and the architecture team.
“None of the big pockets of California could crack the real estate nut of Chicago,” said Dispensary 33.
No dispensary can open within 1000 feet of any preschool, elementary school or child care center, to mention but one obstacle. The client applied to a few real estate locations before landing in Andersonville.
What sets this dispensary apart from all others in the city is its display of various plants, typically forbidden. They worked with the architects and general contractor Vero Design + Build LLC to devise a plan that would comply with state and county regulations while maintaining clean design and desirable retail services for patients. Dispensary 33’s knowledgeable employees have the opportunity to educate patients on all aspects of each plant, displayed in an award-winning wooden bowl that can be sealed.
Learn more about the project here.
